Frequently Asked Questions about U.S. Customs and Border Protection Careers

The hiring preferences for U.S. Customs and Border Protection are: 1. Veterans Preference – Applicants who have served in the Armed Forces of the United States may be eligible for a 5-point or 10-point Veterans Preference. 2. Preference-Eligible Veterans – Preference-eligible veterans are those who have served in the armed forces and who meet certain other requirements. Preference-eligible veterans may be eligible for additional hiring preferences. 3. Reinstatement Eligibility – Former federal employees who left federal service in good standing may be eligible for reinstatement. 4. Career Transition Assistance Programs – Applicants who are eligible for the Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) may be eligible for additional hiring preferences. 5. Academic Achievement – Applicants may be eligible for additional hiring preferences if they have achieved certain academic achievements, such as a degree from an accredited college or university. 6. Law Enforcement Preference – Applicants with previous law enforcement experience may be eligible for additional hiring preferences.

The salary range for U.S. Customs and Border Protection is $35,817 - $117,191 per year.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection employees are typically paid bi-weekly, or every two weeks.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection offers a variety of career paths and advancement opportunities for their employees. Employees can advance their careers by taking on additional responsibilities, completing specialized training, and by competing for promotions. Employees may also be eligible for promotions through the agency’s merit-based promotion system. Employees may also pursue advanced degrees and certifications, which can lead to higher-level positions or promotions.

The job market at U.S. Customs and Border Protection is highly competitive. Most positions require a written exam, and applicants must meet the minimum qualifications for the job before they can even be considered. Furthermore, due to the large number of applicants, many qualified applicants may not be selected for an interview.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection employees are eligible for a variety of benefits, including health insurance, life insurance, retirement plans, paid vacation and sick leave, tuition assistance, and long-term care insurance. They may also qualify for special benefits such as flexible spending accounts, employee discounts, and priority hiring status.

Yes, there are several requirements for working with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. These include being a U.S. citizen, being at least 18 years of age, passing a background check, and having a valid driver's license. Other requirements vary depending on the specific job, such as educational and experience qualifications.

Job security at U.S. Customs and Border Protection is generally very good. It is a federal government agency, which means that the positions are secure and protected by civil service regulations. However, the agency is subject to budget cuts and changes in staffing levels, and there is always the possibility of layoffs.

There are many career paths available with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, including: Border Patrol Agent, Customs and Border Protection Officer, Immigration Officer, Air Interdiction Agent, Intelligence Research Specialist, Canine Enforcement Officer, Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Officer, Marine Interdiction Agent, and Information Technology Specialist.

Promotions within U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) are offered in accordance with Civil Service Commission rules and regulations. Promotions are based upon merit, qualifications, and performance. There is no specific frequency for promotion opportunities; however, most employees can expect to be eligible for promotion consideration approximately every three years.

Yes. U.S. Customs and Border Protection employees must be at least 18 years old, unless they are applying for a Student Career Experience Program (SCEP). The SCEP allows students who are 16 years old or older to participate in a career exploration program while in school.

Yes, applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for a job with U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

1. Application: The first step in the recruitment process for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is to submit an online application. During this step, you will provide information about your education, employment history, and military background. 2. Testing: Once your application has been reviewed and accepted, you will be invited to take a series of tests. These tests may include a written test, medical evaluation, and physical fitness examination. 3. Background Investigation: After passing the tests, you will be required to complete a background investigation. This investigation will include a polygraph test, drug screening, and a review of your background. 4. Interview: Once your background investigation is complete, you will be invited to participate in a formal interview with CBP personnel. During this interview, you will be asked questions to assess your suitability for the position. 5. Final Selection: After the interview, the final selection process will be conducted. During this process, CBP personnel will evaluate all of the information gathered from the application, tests, background investigation, and interview to determine if you are the best candidate for the position.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection employees can take advantage of two retirement plans: the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). FERS is a three-tiered retirement system that provides a basic annuity, a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) account, and Social Security benefits. The basic annuity is based on the employee's years of service and the average of the three highest-paid years of their career. Employees can contribute up to 5% of their basic pay to their TSP account, which is matched by the government up to 5%. Employees are also eligible to receive Social Security benefits when they reach retirement age. The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is a retirement savings plan that allows employees to save money in an account that is similar to a 401(k). Employees can contribute up to $19,500 per year of their pre-tax salary, and the government will match up to 5% of their salary.

Yes, there is a dress code for U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Employees are required to maintain a professional appearance, including wearing professional business attire such as suits, dress slacks, dress shirts, neckties, and dress shoes. Clothing must be neat, clean, and presentable in order to maintain a professional appearance.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offers a variety of travel opportunities for its personnel. These include: travel to other CBP facilities, travel to border towns for business and training purposes, travel to attend conferences and workshops related to CBP operations, and travel to participate in mission-critical operations and exercises. CBP also offers opportunities for international travel associated with foreign government visits, trade missions, and other activities.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection employees are eligible for many forms of educational assistance. This includes tuition reimbursement for on-the-job training programs, online courses, and college/university courses. In addition, the agency offers tuition assistance, a student loan repayment program, and other educational benefits such as reimbursement for books and other course-related materials. Employees may also be eligible for College Credit for Life Experiences (CCLE) which allows them to receive college credits for their work experience.

Yes, there are several special qualifications and skills needed to work for U.S. Customs and Border Protection. These qualifications and skills include physical fitness, firearms proficiency, knowledge of U.S. laws and regulations, computer proficiency, foreign language proficiency, and interpersonal skills. All applicants must also pass a background check, physical examination, and psychological evaluation.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) employees have access to a variety of support services, including: • Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): These provide free, confidential assessments, counseling, referrals, and resources to help employees address personal and work-related issues. • Employee Development Programs: These offer classes and training courses to help employees develop their professional and technical skills. • Employee Wellness Programs: These provide programs and activities to help employees improve their physical and mental health, such as stress management, nutrition education, and physical fitness. • Employee Recognition Programs: These recognize employees for their hard work and dedication to their jobs. • Employee Benefits Programs: These provide a range of benefits and services, such as health insurance, retirement savings plans, and life insurance. • Diversity and Inclusion Programs: These promote an inclusive workplace culture and provide resources and support for employees from all backgrounds.

1. Be a U.S. citizen. 2. Be at least 18 years of age. 3. Pass a background investigation. 4. Pass a drug test. 5. Possess a valid driver’s license. 6. Pass a medical evaluation. 7. Pass the CBP Entry Level Test (CBPELT). 8. Possess a high school diploma or equivalent. 9. Be available to work rotating shifts, weekends, and holidays. 10. Have the physical and mental ability to perform the job requirements.